Alonso - Heavier cars a consequence of Grosjean fireball accident

Fernando Alonso has identified Romain Grosjean's fireball crash in Bahrain two years ago as one of the reasons for this season's much heavier machinery.

The new cars are 60 kilograms heavier than in previous seasons following an overhaul of the technical regulations which includes a revision of the bodywork.

While the heavier cars make for a "slow-motion" feel on TV, according to Alonso, the Alpine driver has praised the safety advances of the design following Grosjean's near-fatal accident.

"The cars are 60 kilograms heavier, so like last year, instead of putting 100 kilograms for the race you put 160 kilograms so everything will feel like slow motion, maybe on TV as well," said the Spaniard.

“We did an exhibition with the R25 in Abu Dhabi three years ago and that car is 200 kilograms lighter. On TV it felt very reactive and very sharp. I guess the heavier the cars are, the less feeling on TV of the speed you get.

“That’s a consequence of these cars but at the same time, they are very safe. The cockpit area has been reinforced a lot after the Grosjean accident here in Bahrain."

The technical regulation overhaul has also led to changes to the fuel used in F1 cars this year, with it mandatory there is 10 per cent ethanol.

Alonso believed it will not take long for the drivers and fans alike to become familiar with the new machinery.

“The engines are a little more sustainable with the fuel, " added the Spaniard. "It is the same for everybody and I think it’s just a matter of getting used to it.

“Maybe after eight or nine months, you won’t remember the last generation of cars.”

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